Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul is set to be released by Brighton and Hove Albion this summer - yet the reigning Spanish champions Barcelona are reportedly interested in the Dutch international.

The 30-year-old failed to make a single Premier League appearance for the Seagulls during his season on the south coast, finding himself as deputy to Mathew Ryan, and his contract expires this summer.

Yet, despite Krul’s lack of football over the last few seasons since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2015, the Netherlands international is claimed to be a target for Barcelona.

Goalkeeper Tim Krul applauds the crowd (Image: PA)

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According to Mundo Deportivo, should back-up Barcelona goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen depart this summer in search of first-team football, then Krul has been mentioned at the Nou Camp as a potential replacement.

Rui Patricio, who has had his contract rescinded at Sporting Lisbon, and Everton’s Joel Robles are also mentioned as targets - seemingly with Barcelona unwilling to pay a fee for a new back-up keeper to Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

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At this stage it seems Barcelona are merely keeping tabs on Krul’s situation. It is understood that Brighton manager Chris Hughton would like to keep Krul, but the goalkeeper is keen for first-team football and will look to depart having made just five cup appearances for the Seagulls last season.

However, a move to former Champions League winners and current La Liga champions Barcelona would surely prove too tempting for Krul to turn down, even if he was to be second choice, should an offer materialise.